Choose where you sleep

Katharina

Based in Lombok, The Katharina sailing cruises are primarily focused on Eastern Indonesia, highlights of which include the islands of Lombok, Sumbawa, Komodo, Rinca, Flores, the Moluccas, and Irian Jaya (West-Papua) where she will visit, among other places the famous, Asmat tribe.

Exploratory cruises will take you to the unknown and extraordinary, to dragons in Komodo, whale hunters in Lembata, warrior tribes in Papua and will trace the ancient spice routes to the gorgeous Banda Islands. For those interested in history, remember the great discoverers Cook, Magellan and Tasman. Much of the sailing is done at night to allow maximum opportunity for visiting islands and points of interest, or snorkel, kayak, dive (by prior arrangement) etc. during the day

The boat is a traditional style ?Bugis Schooner? or Pinisi (pronounced Finisi). The Bugis people of south Sulawesi, once feared as pirates, have always been the most skilful ship builders and sailors of Indonesia. Their vessels, perahu and pinisi were and still are hand-crafted entirely from timber.

The Katharina is designed for comfort with spacious air-conditioned, en-suite cabins and the dining/recreational area and large deck-space are furnished with comfortable deck chairs and sun benches.

The Indonesian seas are usually calm, being out of the cyclone path. June, July and August are usually more windy and it is during these months that the regular south-eastern trades allows the ship to often travel under sail.

Notes

This sailing cruise can be incorporated into a Symbiosis tailor made holiday to Indonesia that can be adapted and tailored to meet your dates, preferences and passions. Please contact one of our bespoke holiday planners to create the ideal itinerary for you.

Bali~Sumbawa~Komodo~Flores

9 days/8 nights Bali ~ Flores ~ Bali:

Few areas in Asia can match the cultural and natural diversity as can be found following the chain of the Lesser Sunda Islands: towering active volcanoes, jungle clad mountain ranges, alternated by dry savannah lowlands, both teeming with wildlife… quiet coastal villages, emerald seas, megalithic cultures, colorful market places, tribal rituals and in addition a world of kaleidoscopic beauty under water. This leisure expedition includes the Komodo area for a couple of days of snorkeling, beach combing and hiking through one of the most beautiful National Parks of Indonesia. Entering the Flores Highlands you have an opportunity to hike to some remote villages and witness the tedious process of ‘ikat’ weaving, practiced amid unsurpassed scenery of gigantic volcanoes, bamboo forests and intriguingly colored crater lakes. It is the very best introduction to the soul of Indonesia.

Day OneLeaving 0830am from Sanur, south Bali, you will be transferred to the anchorage of ‘Katharina’ off the village of Amed, north-east Bali, a pleasant ride through a largely unknown area of Bali (approx. 2 hours). After boarding and settling in on the vessel, the captain gives the orders to lift the anchor and begin set sail across the Lombok Strait. This stretch of water between Bali and Lombok marks an important ecological boundary, first described by Sir Alfred Russel Wallace, the 19th century British naturalist. He noticed that flora and fauna of the islands west of this boundary are home to Asiatic animal and plant species, whereas the islands east of that “line” have a greater similarity to species found in Australia. In the afternoon, make a first stop at the small island of Gili Trawangan, off the west coast of Lombok, for a couple of hours of swimming, snorkeling and beach-combing. Late afternoon, go on a north-easterly course for the overnight passage to east-Lombok.

Day TwoDocked in Labuhan Lombok, east Lombok, after breakfast board a local coach for a tour into the interior of east Lombok, untouched by the crowds frequenting west Lombok. You will get to visit a pottery village, attend a local dance performance and have your lunch on the way. After re-embarkation, continue your journey to the island of Moyo, off the coast of west Sumbawa. At the southern tip of Moyo we spend a few hours relaxing, swimming and snorkeling. Before nightfall, the vessel will be heading to Badas, the harbour of Sumbawa Besar, capital of west Sumbawa, Here you will spend a quiet night amidst the hills surrounding a beautiful bay.

Day ThreeDisembark Katharina and go for a visit to the city of Sumbawa Besar. The island of Sumbawa traditionally is divided in two Sultanates, Sumbawa Besar in the western part and Bima, overseeing the eastern part of the island. You will visit the former Sultan’s palace, a structure entirely laid out in local teak and harbouring relics, displaying the luster of the ancient Sultan’s court. From this lofty location, descend to meet the locals at their typical Indonesia habitat, the pasar. Those who want to join the pace of daily life, may jump on the typical local means of transport, the horse cart. In a parade with the local people, out for their daily shopping, you are brought to the market. Here you are overwhelmed by the colours, fragrances, and stunning variety of vegetables, fruits and spices. Prices are established by an elaborate process of negotiating.

After lunch onboard Katharina, continue the cruise to the island of Satonda, an extinct volcano. Here you can go for walk over a tiny ridge hiding the craterlake. You can feel the eery atmosphere surrounding this big pond, all silent except the sound of a lonely bird or the odd gecko. Swimming over the beautiful local reef just off the island enlightened by a rainbow of aquarium fish you enter a world entirely different in colours but similar in silence. A highlight of your visit to Satonda is the sight of thousands of flying foxes that commute at dusk from the island to feed on the mainland, returning before first light the next day.
At night time, Katharina will set sail north of Sumbawa to the east coast of the island.

Day FourArrive in the morning at Wera on the east coast of the island of Sumbawa. Wera is a Buginese settlement famous for its boatbuilding. Here you will see all kinds of craft in various stages of construction, much the way the Katharina was built in 1998. Visit the village and hope to attend a local performance.
If weather prohibits a safe landing, the vessel will sail to Sangean island, an active volcano towering 1800 meters above the surrounding waters. You will meet the people of the tiny settlement on the island and make a short hike testing the steepness of the volcano. In the afternoon, proceed to Gili Banta, uninhabited and perfect for some excellent swimming and snorkeling. During the night Katharina sails onward to the island of Rinca, part of the Komodo National Park.

Day FiveWake up with the boat at anchor off Rinca island, the second largest of the eighty islands in the Komodo archipelago and the richest in terms of fauna. Enjoy your trek through spectacular scenery of savannah, looking to view wild horses, water buffalo, wild boar, monkeys, and of course the famous ‘Komodo dragons’. After, lunch while crossing over to Padar Island to another spectacular beach location for some exceptional snorkeling. A quiet night will be spent in the bay of Loh Liang in form of Komodo Island proper.

Day SixThis morning, go ashore at the ranger station in Loh Liang on Komodo Island for another trek through the Park. In a setting of a dry and rugged landscape you will meet some of these giant creatures that come closest to anything you ever fancied of prehistory. Shock and awe is our part!
In the afternoon, there will be a stop at the small island of Mesa where you will get to visit a settlement of the Baju, the ‘Sea Gypsies’ who are indigenous to the area of the Lintas Strait and live in houses on wooden stilts that are often underwater during the high tide. If time allows, you can make a final stop in the Park at Sabolon, another paradise in its own right. The beach has a pink look caused by scattered particles from red coral.
As the sun sets, the crew will hoist the anchor for the overnight passage to the North Coast of Flores

Day SevenToday, take our time to explore the Riung Archipelago, a group of (17) uninhabited islands with white sand beaches and beautiful coral gardens just off the North coast of Flores. Here, you can spend the whole day beachcombing and snorkeling. A hike up to the hill warrantees the spectator of a spectacular view of the main island. Dinner will be a barbecue on a desert beach before continuing your voyage further eastward.

Day EightEarly in the morning you will reach Ropa, Central Flores, the starting point for your excursion to Kelimutu. The Kelimutu is a volcano with 3 crater lakes, each in a different color. Situated in the midst of forest-covered mountains, the colors of the lakes are a surprise, as they change from time to time. They may be turquoise, black and a reddish brown, but don’t be surprised if you find a white one or a red one! Take your time to experience the spooky atmosphere surrounding this natural phenomenon, quite unique in the world. On the way back, make a few stops in several villages to meet with some of the women who specialize in the typical Flores ikat weaving techniques. After returning to the vessel, you will move to a nearby beach for the remainder of the afternoon for relaxing, swimming and snorkeling.
In the evening there may be another BBQ on the beach.
At night, you will have your last sailing from Ropa to Maumere, east-Flores

Day NineEarly morning the Katharina will arrive in Maumere. In the morning, pay a visit to the small village of Watublapi where you will witness a cultural performance and the traditional hand weaving process typical for Flores.
After the performance you will be transferred to Maumere airport for your return flight to Bali.

*Children between 2 and 12 benefit from a 25% discount. A high season surcharge applies in July and August.

Notes

Itineraries is subject to change without notice due to sea and weather conditions, availability of safe anchorage, government regulations and other factors beyond the company's control.
** Komodo National Park Fee of US$15 per adult and US$7.50 for children under 16 years old for visits of up to 3 days will be payable on board

Bali~Komodo~Savu~Roti~Timor

No Days: 10

With some imagination the storyline of this cruise could be made into the synopsis of a movie script. Each day and each island brings another flashback to the times before the archipelago became known as the East Indies and we invite everyone who yearns for a fresh dose of inspiration to join in…

In scene five you meet the Jurassic monsters on Komodo... in scene six you can hear the earth of Sumba being trampled by horses carrying ferocious warriors… in scene eight we see the gracious feet of virgins dancing on the beach of Savu at a thanksgiving ceremony following harvest…. In scene nine we listen to the delicate tones of the sasando, a 12-string lontar-leaf harp, evoking the nostalgia of the Portuguese era on the island of Roti...this leisure expedition is a true voyage back in time.

On Day One, leaving at 08.30 a.m. we transfer you from Sanur in the south of Bali to the anchorage of ‘Katharina’ off the village of Amed, in north-east Bali, a pleasant and beautiful drive of about 2 hours. After we board the vessel and settle in, the captain gives the orders for the anchor to be lifted and we cross the Lombok Strait. This stretch of water between Bali and Lombok marks a very important ecological boundary, first described by Sir Alfred Russel Wallace, the British naturalist. He noticed that the flora and fauna of the islands to the west are home to Asiatic animal and plant species, whereas the islands to the east of that “line” have a greater similarity to species found in Australia. In the afternoon we make a first stop at the small island of Gili Trawangan, just off the Lombok coast, for a couple of hours of swimming, snorkeling, and beach-combing. In the late afternoon we go on a north-easterly course again for the overnight passage to the Sumbawa region.

On Day Two, as the sun rises we make our landfall at the island of Moyo. After breakfast we go ashore to hike through the monsoon forest to a lovely three-tiered waterfall for a dip or a swim in complete wilderness. Around noon once we return to the ship the anchor is raised again. We sail Eastward around the north coast of Moyo and a few hours later we arrive at Satonda island. Located just a couple of miles off the north-west coast of Sumbawa, Satonda is what remained of an extinct volcano of which the caldera was filled with water when nearby Mount Tambora erupted in 1815. It was the biggest volcanic eruption in the collective memory of mankind, much larger than Krakatoa. With an estimated volume of 160 cubic kilometers of rocks and ash ejected from the volcano the following year became known as the "year without a summer" because of the effect on North American and European weather. The slopes of Satonda are now covered in lush forest. We will go ashore to take some pictures of the huge crater-lake just a few minutes from the beach. Reefs around the island are spectacular and mostly in pristine condition, excellent for snorkelers. A highlight of a visit to Satonda is the sight of many thousands of flying foxes that commute at dusk from the island to feed on the mainland, returning before first light the next day. At sunset we head eastward again for another overnight passage.

On Day Three, we arrive in the morning at Wera on the east coast of the island of Sumbawa. Wera is a Buginese settlement famous for its boatbuilding. Here we will see all kinds of craft in various stages of construction, similar to how Katharina was built in 1998. If weather would not allow a smooth landing we sail to Sangean island, an active volcano towering 1800 meters above the surrounding waters. We will visit the tiny settlement on the island and make a short hike testing the steepness of the volcano. In the afternoon we proceed to Gili Banta, an island uninhabited by humans and a perfect place for some excellent swimming and snorkeling. During the night Katharina goes on a course to Komodo island.

On Day Four, shortly after sunrise we go ashore on the island that has given the dragon as well as the National Park its name. Accompanied by a ranger, we will hike for about 2 to 3 hours in a landscape of steppe and forest. A few of the wild beasts are always seen, as are deer and monkeys. The ranger shows us the dens and nests of the dragons and we learn a lot more about this mysterious creature. Once the heat of the day hits the island, we escape to one of the postcard-picture beaches of the National Park: Red Beach, its name derived from the fact that it is red-colored by pulverized coral. Here we spend another splendid afternoon beachcombing and snorkeling. During the evening on another deserted beach nearby we will have a barbecue dinner under the blinking gaze of a million stars.

On Day Five, we wake up with the ship at anchor off Rinca Island, the second largest of the eighty islands in the Komodo archipelago and the richest in terms of fauna. We will go trekking through spectacular scenery of savannah, looking for wild horses, water buffalo, wild boar, monkeys, and of course the famous ‘Komodo dragons’. Rinca’s unsurpassed savannah scenery is accentuated by deep blue coves and inlets. In the course of the afternoon we lift the anchor again and sailing out through the Linta strait we go on a southerly course to cross the Savu Sea.

On Day Six, we arrive at Waikelo, West Sumba. Here we go ashore for a first impression and visit some of the traditional villages of West Sumba, where time seems an irrelevant factor and where it seems as if life has not changed for ages. We will admire numerous megaliths erected on ancestral tombs. Along the way we will stop for a picnic and have our lunch that was prepared beforehand by the crew. In the late afternoon we go back aboard Katharina and the ship will be heading east along the north coast of Sumba.

On Day Seven, we anchor in the eastern part of Sumba Island, off the main town of Waingapu. The cultural life of Sumba is distinguished by spectacular rituals, huge megalithic grave sites, unusual peaked houses and beautiful ikat cloths. Sumba is one of the most culturally interesting places to visit in East Indonesia. Because of its position south to the other islands of Nusa Tenggara, Sumba managed to escape the influence of Hindu, Muslim and Christian religion. Today, still more than 50 % of its population adheres to traditional religion of animism and ancestor worship. When we visit one of the traditional villages in East Sumba, we are welcomed by horses dancing along the path and we are invited to share betel nut with the villagers, while some of them perform the local dances. The women show us the production of their famous textiles – from spinning the cotton to the finished “ikat”. And of course, these pieces of art and workmanship are for sale! During the night Katharina makes the 110 nautical mile crossing to the Island of Savu.

On Day Eight, we arrive at the same spot where James Cook landed in 1770. Savu is one of the most precious islands of all of Indonesia! The inhabitants of this rugged and dry island are extremely friendly and hospitable and the girls are famous for their beauty. We are welcomed by the Savunese during a special welcome ceremony, performed on the beach and accompanied by a ritual horse dance. We stroll through the ancient ruins of Bodo and a truck brings us to Mesara -aside from some motorcycles and an ambulance, trucks are the only means of transport on the island-. In Mesara, the ladies show us in a perfect demonstration how they make their beautiful “ikat”-textiles. How they spin the cotton, dye it with natural colours, use strings to bind (“ikat”) the pattern into the yarn, weave it on the loom and finally wear it. In the late afternoon we sail onward to the island of Roti.

On Day Nine, we arrive at Baa, the capital of Roti, the southernmost Island in Indonesi. Roti has been long under the influence of Portugal, which is clearly demonstrated by the local handicraft. Here is your chance to buy silver ornaments, distinctive Rotinese ikats, and pinnacled hats plaited from lontar leaves. We are likely to be entertained by music and dances produced by the sasando, a 12-string lontar-leaf harp that originated from this tiny island. The music is reminiscent of the Fado music and the saudade sentiments of Portugal. If time allows we will attend music and dance performance before we depart on our last overnight passage to West-Timor

On Day Ten, early in the morning we arrive in the traditional harbour of Temau, Kupang, West Timor. After breakfast, you will say farewell to the crew and the Katharina. We will transfer you to the airport. On the way to Kupang airport, if time allows this, we will visit the museum of west-Timor in the centre of the city. Return flight from Kupang to Denpasar, Bali.

Participants should be aware that itinerary and program of Katharina's sea voyages occasionally may have to be modified, due to factors beyond the captain's control: unfavourable weather conditions, delay in processing harbour clearances, modified schedules of domestic flights. The cruise director and captain of the Katharina will adjust the program accordingly in the best interest of all.

Flores Sea~Banda~Kei

Day 1
10:15 hrs Flight Denpasar-Labuhanbajo* Arrrival in Labuhanbajo at 11:30 hrs. Transfer from airport to the harbour, embarkation aboard the Katharina. Set sail to Bonerate.

Day 2
Arrival at Bonerate in the middle of the Flores Sea. Visit of the main village. Sandy streets, houses built on stilts in typical Makasserese style. On the beach construction of the elegant Lambo boats. After inspection of the village, swimming, snorkeling and lounging on the beaches at the northwest side of the island. Night sailing to Batuata Island, southwest Sulawesi.

Day 3
Arrival at Pulau Batuata, southwest Sulawesi. After setting foot ashore, we pay respect to the local Chief, ask for permission to go around and see the island. We visit the local school, hear the children singing the latest local hits, drink tea in the ‘cityhall’ and experience the remoteness of this place destitute from the comforts of modern life. In the evening we sail onward to the Tukang Besi archipelago, southeast Sulawesi.

Day 4
Arrival in the Tukang Besi archipelago, world famous for its pristine coral reefs which belong to the most diverse in Indonesia. For two days we will wander about this unique geographical area inhabited by a tribe of daring seafarers, shipbuilders and maritime traders
We will look for small coves and inlets, the best soft corals, meet fishermen, local blacksmiths (tukang besi = blacksmith), visit local markets and may come across the perfect location for a barbecue.

Day 5
Extension of Day 4. Late afternoon departure headed for Gunung Api.

Day 6
In the course of the day arrival at Gunung Api (firemountain/volcano) in the middle of the Banda Sea. Here we hope to meet a mixed colony of seabirds, predominantly Frigate Birds and John-of-Gaunts. The Birds may carry out raids on the Katharina if they feel threatened in their habitat. In the evening onward sailing to the Lipari archipelago.

Day 7
Arrival at the Lucipari archipelago, a volcanic outcrop in the northeastern part of the Banda Sea. As is the case with Gunung Api, no reports have come in from the Lipari since the late nineties when ornithologists mentioned colonies of migrating birds and groups of migrating
fishermen. A destination of discovery in the true sense of the word! Day 8 Spare day. Night sail to Banda.

Day 9
Arrival in the Banda Archipelago, famous for its natural beauty and its cultural heritage from the time the Spice Islands were the target of the European colonizers. We will tie the bow to a palm-tree in the garden of a hacienda style hotel in Bandanaira the only (small) city of Banda. We will stroll through the city, visit old fortresses and admire the planters’ mansions from the old days.

Day 10
Today we will visit a few of the other islands of the archipelago, Ai, Revenge and Hatta and will see what remains of the ancient plantations, churches and cemeteries. We will breathe the atmosphere of the time that the Banda youth was sent to the most expensive boarding schools of Europe and dream about the splendid, but short-lived glory during this remarkable episode in world history. Proceed from Banda northeast.

Day 11
Leisure day.

Day 12
Arrival in Manawoka, one of the Gorong islands, southeast of Ceram. After a short walk through and old nutmeg grove and a visit to the raja of the island we move to the eastern tip of the island. There we find two lakes connected with the sea by a small tunnel. Swimming in these lakes evokes the feeling of discovering an unknown planet.

Day 13
Today we will arrive at the Kei Archipelago. We will visit on the last day of our cruise Kei Besar. Here we will make a short trek into the the forest where Sir Alfred Wallace 160 years ago was collecting his bird and insect species. We may come across a small village where nice pottery is made. Night alongside the pier in Tual, Kei Kecil.

Day 14
Early morning transfer to the airport of Langgur for your flight* at 05:50 hrs. to Ambon, from where the onward flight* to Makassar will depart at 15:30 hrs. and the flight* from Makassar to Bali at 18.05. Arrival on Bali apporx. 19.20. Please mind all mentioned flights are subject to changes.
*We can take care of the domestic flights (day 1 and day 14).
The rates are on request and not included in the cruise price.

NOTICE
Participants are informed that itinerary and program of our sea voyages occasionally may be modified, due to factors beyond our control: unfavorable weather conditions, delay in processing harbor clearances, modified schedules of domestic flights. The cruise director and captain of the Katharina will adjust the program accordingly in the best interest of all.

Kei~Agats~Timika

WC2, KEI-AGATS-TIMIKA, 12 days/11 nights

During this journey of a lifetime you will be perplexed by the astonishing ingenuity and seemingly unlimited creativity humans can muster to survive, socialise and revel in life. A world where time is of no importance and attention to daily concerns and pleasures is paramount.

Nature will reveal itself in its most breathtaking form in the Triton bay crowded with extraterrestrial formations and the Giti Giti waterfalls thundering from steep cliffs straight into the sea.

The highlight will be the display of Papuan culture of the Asmat, where hundreds of warriors brandishing spears and shrieking in ecstasy will surround the Katharina to dispel the demons we have carried in from overseas.

Experience how wonder and relaxation can change your life in a world without CNN, traffic jams and computer-screens!

Prior to the cruise flight Denpasar-Ambon (via Makassar).*

Transfer to hotel Ambon Manise where we will spend one night. After check in visit of Siwa Lima Museum in the hills outside Ambon City where we can study the history and culture of the Mollucas.

Day 1: After spending the night in Ambon, fly from Ambon to Kei, dep.07:00 arr.09:05*. Transfer from Langgur airport to the harbour of Tual, embarkation on board of the Katharina. We settle in and in the evening explore Tual, the capital of Kei.

Day 2: Early morning depart from Tual harbour and make the first stop at Kei Besar to explore coastal villages, snorkel or trek into the local forest. Afternoon onward sailing to the mainland of West Papua.

Day 3: Arrival at the Nautilus Strait, between Pulau Adi and the mainland of Irian Jaya. Stop at the Giti Giti waterfall running from the mountains into the sea. From here cross to the island of Namatote to search for some cliff paintings – glyphs and pictorial-signs - left by ancient inhabitants high on the cliff galleries. Watch for whales as the area is a known breeding ground.

Day 4: Today sail into the narrow bay of Triton, one of the natural wonders of Irian Jaya. You will be surrounded by small eroded rocks mushrooming from the sea - like flying saucers landed from outer space. Explore the vicinity at closer range from the tender.
Days 5 & 6: Two days to explore the virginal coastal areas and bays east of Triton. Here Westerners rarely ever set foot ashore and so will be surely full of interesting surprises. Late afternoon depart for the crossing to Agats, the main village of the Asmat area.

Day 7: This entire day you will sail along the swampy coast of West Papua, formerly known as Irian Jaya. When winds are favourable, The crew will hoist the sails and share the experience of Sir Alfred Wallace who described Pinisi vessels as “more comfortable than the modern day steamers” during his Odysseys through the “Malay Archipelago” (1854-1862).

Days 8 & 9: Early morning arrival at the coastal area in front of Agats. The distance from the shore will vary, depending on the tide, from 1 mile to 7. Today and the next day will be filled with ceremonial welcome rituals meticulously and over many days prepared by the Asmat population in anticipation of our arrival. The Katharina will likely be surrounded by an armada of war-canoes; the air filled with shrieking and shouting of the tribal people expressing their joy at your coming. This and other rituals will be carried out in line with the local adat (customs) so as to not disturb the balance between the living and the deceased, between gods and men. Late afternoon of day 9 we will set sail for our final journey to Timika.

Day 10: Spare day to be taken up along the route in response to spontaneously emerging conditions.

Day 11: Arrival in Timika, disembarkation and transfer to Hotel Sheraton where you will spend the last night before returning to civilization.

Day 12: Transfer to the airport for your return flight to Bali or Jakarta.

*Due to the early departure of this flight, one night overstay in Ambon must be taken into account. Domestic flights and accommodation may be booked through our office.

NOTICE Participants are informed that itinerary and program of our sea voyages occasionally may be modified, due to factors beyond our control: unfavorable weather conditions, delay in processing harbor clearances, modified schedules of domestic flights. The cruise director and captain of the Katharina will adjust the program accordingly in the best interest of all.

3. DISCOUNTED RATES: Triple Cabin occupancy: 50% discount third occupant.
Children (up to 10 years old, when boarding with parents in the same triple cabin) :
- First Child: 60% discount is applicable.
- Second Child: Free of charge.

4. SINGLE CABIN OCCUPANCY: 50% surcharge

5. FAMILY SUITE (upper deck): As the upper deck cabin offers exclusively facilities -extra space, a king size bed, a single bed, a couch, windows all around- a surcharge for this cabin is due of one extra 'ticket', i.e., two pax will pay for three.

Kei~Tanimbar~Timor

Although Indonesia encompasses 18.500 odd islands, offering a stunning variety of culture, flora, fauna and marine biology, voyages overseas, hopping from one island to the next, are virtually unheard of.

This voyage to the eastern Lesser Sunda’s and the Southest Moluccas will bring you to the most remote parts of the archipelago, to places over and below the sea level you haven’t dreamt of existing.

Gradually passing from Asia to the Pacific you will set foot ashore on a string of islands stretched out along the Ring of Fire, in our time a backwater but for centuries the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow where the weight of nutmeg and clove was measured in gold bars.

Prior to the cruise flight Denpasar-Ambon (via Makassar).
Transfer to hotel Ambon Manise where we will spend one night. After check in visit of Siwa Lima Museum in the hills outside Ambon City where we can study the history and culture of the Mollucas.

Day 1: After spent the night in Ambon, flight Ambon-Kei, dep.07:00 arr.09:05*. Upon arrival at Langgur airport, Tual transfer to the harbour of Tual and embark aboard Katharina. Settle in and after dinner explore Tual, the capital of Kei. Late evening departure to Kei-Tanimbar.

Day 2: Early morning arrival at Kei-Tanimbar, the southernmost island of the Kei archipelago and allegedly cradle of the regional culture. Here you can explore coastal villages, search for cultural artefacts such as weaving and pottery or make a trekking into the local forest. Late afternoon onward sailing to the Tanimbar Archipelago. Long night sailing.

Day 3: Stop at the northern part of the Tanimbars, at the islands of Fordate and Larat. Village exploration, nature hike, beach-combing and snorkelling will be the substance of the day. With the assistance of local teachers you may be able to attend to a performance of local music and dance.

Day 4: Sailing along the west coast of Yamdena, the main island of the Tanimbar archipelago, encounter islands of quiet beauty with untouched forest teeming with birds, wild orchids and cuscus. This will be another day of nature exploration, coastal raids with our zodiac, and some relaxing time on remote beaches. Night sailing to Dai, Babar.

Day 5: The island of Dai – in the Babar archipelago – is a spectacular limestone mountain towering 650 meters above the sea. The beaches and the reefs are exceptional. You may also like to trek across the whole island to enjoy incredible scenery from the summit. Local folk still go hunting with bows and arrows in these parts. Night sailing to the island of Damar.
Day 6: The island of Damar has an active volcano that can be ascended in about three hours, best in the early hours after dawn. Alternatively, you can make an easier hike through spice plantations, coconut groves and pristine rain forest, ending at the local village.
Midday sail for a couple of hours to uninhabited Pulau Terbang Utara to enjoy pristine beaches, coral reefs (snorkelling) and a lagoon full of birds, including – occasionally – large flocks of pelicans. In the evening barbecue at the desert beach at this Bounty island. Night sailing heading for Romang.

Day 7: Morning on uninhabited Moapora island, in the Romang archipelago: beach combing, snorkelling, diving and short hikes inland. Afternoon, disembark onto Romang island proper for a three hour hike (if you wish) from the eastern village to the beautiful western bay passing through orange and pomelo groves with great scenery on surrounding islands. Night sailing to the island of Wetar.

Day 8: Wetar is possibly one of the least known of the south-eastern Maluku islands; totally isolated tribal folk is still said to inhabit its jungle-clad interior. After some spectacular snorkelling close to a small offshore island, have a nature stop in the morning along the northern coast where you can hike inland following a river of crystal clear water. Midday sail to the western tip of Wetar for spectacular snorkelling close to a small offshore island. Night sailing, heading for Alor.
Day 9: The day in Alor will be spent exploring the main island: the old tribal villages there are defensively located on hilltops and have a particular architecture. Attend traditional dances in the village of Takpala and be surprised by the redoubt appearance of the local women, the size of pygmees. Return to the Katharina at midday and sail to nearby Pura island where you can enjoy spectacular snorkelling right off the beach, and also walks to coastal villages where locals produce ikat cloth as well as some wine made from palm juice. Short night sailing to Pantar.

Day 10: On Pantar visit some of the fortified villages typical for this area once feared for its belligerent population. You will be peacefully guided by one of our crew who hails from Pantar. Be prepared for some interesting expressions of local culture! After re-embarkation, enjoy swimming in crystal clear waters around the boat. Midday sail to uninhabited Rusa island: the beaches are truly fantastic, the corals exquisite and the island – as its name implies – is full of deer that are easily seen, sometimes even from the beach. Night sailing.

Day 11: Exploration of the coast of west-Timor, moving south for Kupang. Search for local fishing communities and vestiges of Portuguese occupation, making one or two snorkelling stops on the way. Night sailing to Kupang.

Day 12: After arrival this morning in Temau, the traditional harbour of Kupang, take breakfast on board and say goodbye to the crew and the Katharina. Time allowing, pay a visit to the Museum of Timor on the way to Kupang airport for your return flight to Denpasar, Bali.

*Due to the early departure of this flight, one night overstay in Ambon must be taken into account. Domestic flights and accommodation may be booked through Symbiosis Expedition Planning .

NOTICE Participants are informed that itinerary and program of our sea voyages occasionally may be modified, due to factors beyond our control: unfavorable weather conditions, delay in processing harbor clearances, modified schedules of domestic flights. The cruise director and captain of the Katharina will adjust the program accordingly in the best interest of all.

Timor~Banda~Ambon

TIMOR – BANDA – AMBON 12 Days / 11 Nights

Day 1
Arrrival from Denpasar by air in Labuhanbajo. Transfer from airport to the harbour, embarkation aboard the Katharina. Set sail to Bonerate.

Day 2
Arrival at Bonerate in the middle of the Flores Sea. Visit of the main village. Sandy streets, houses built on stilts in typical Makasserese style. On the beach construction of the elegant Lambo boats. After inspection of the village, swimming, snorkeling and lounging on the beaches at the northwest side of the island. Night sailing to Batuata Island, southwest Sulawesi.

Day 3
Arrival at Pulau Batuata, southwest Sulawesi. After setting foot ashore, we pay respect to the local Chief, ask for permission to go around and see the island. We visit the local school, hear the children singing the latest local hits, drink tea in the ‘cityhall’ and experience the remoteness of this place destitute from the comforts of modern life. In the evening we sail onward to the Tukang Besi archipelago, southeast Sulawesi.

Day 4
Arrival in the Tukang Besi archipelago, world famous for its pristine coral reefs which belong to the most diverse in Indonesia. For two days we will wander about this unique geographical area inhabited by a tribe of daring seafarers, shipbuilders and maritime traders. We will look for small coves and inlets, the best soft corals, meet fishermen, local blacksmiths (tukang besi = blacksmith), visit local markets and may come across the perfect location for a barbecue.

Day 5
Extension of Day 4. Late afternoon departure headed for Gunung Api.

Day 6
In the course of the day arrival at Gunung Api (firemountain/volcano) in the middle of the Banda Sea. Here we hope to meet a mixed colony of seabirds, predominantly Frigate Birds and John-of-Gaunts. The Birds may carry out raids on the Katharina if they feel threatened in their habitat. In the evening onward sailing to the Lucipari archipelago.

Day 7
Arrival at the Lucipari archipelago, a volcanic outcrop in the northeastern part of the Banda Sea. As is the case with Gunung Api, no reports have come in from the Lipari since the late nineties when ornithologists mentioned colonies of migrating birds and groups of migrating fishermen. A destination of discovery in the true sense of the word!

Day 8 Spare day. Night sail to Banda.

Day 9
Arrival in the Banda Archipelago, famous for its natural beauty and its cultural heritage from the time the Spice Islands were the target of the European colonizers. We will tie the bow to a palm-tree in the garden of a hacienda style hotel in Bandanaira the only (small) city of Banda. We will stroll through the city, visit old fortresses and admire the planters’ mansions from the old days.

Day 10
Today we will visit a few of the other islands of the archipelago, Ai, Revenge and Hatta and will see what remains of the ancient plantations, churches and cemeteries. We will breathe the atmosphere of the time that the Banda youth was sent to the most expensive boarding schools of Europe and dream about the splendid, but short-lived glory during this remarkable episode in world history.

Day 11
Leisure day.
In the evening departure to the island of Saparua, east Of Ambon

Day 12
Arrival at Saparua, one of the former strongholds of the Dutch in colonial times. Fort Duurstede located in the heart of Saparua, one day in the early 19th century. was conquered by Pattimura, one of the heroes of Indonesia. This story is told in the museum inside the fort in a realistic diorama. It is nice to tour the island with its tall clove trees and many sago palms. Sago once was the staple food on Saparua. On the market women in traditional dress still sago vreads.

Day 13
Today we may decide to stay another day in Saparua, go snorkeling and relaxing on a nearby beach or to sail onward to Haruku squeezed by the islands of Saparua and Ambon whee we may visit fishing villages and study the local economy. In the evening onward sailing to the bay of Ambon

Day 14
Early morning arrival in Ambon bay. After a short sightseeing of the city of Ambon and a visit of Fort Victoria, another fort dating back to colonial days, we say farewell to the crew of the Katharina and catch our flight from Ambon to Makassar at 15:30 After changing planes in Makassar w will depart for Bali at 18.05. Arrival in Bali approx. 19.20.

Please note: flight times are subject to changes.

NOTICE Participants are informed that itinerary and program of our sea voyages occasionally may be modified, due to factors beyond our control: unfavourable weather conditions, delay in processing harbour clearances, modified schedules of domestic flights. The cruise director and captain of the Katharina will adjust the program accordingly in the best interest of all. Please note that the domestic flights are not included. Our office would be happy to arrange them for you.

Ambon~Banda~Kei

AMBON – BANDA – KEI 11 Days/10 Nights

Day 1
Flight Denpasar - Ambon. After arrival at Ambon Airport early afternoon, we will cross by ferry Ambon Bay to find the Katharina at anchor or alongside the pier in the harbour of Ambon City. After settling in on board, we embark on the passage to the Banda Archipelago.

Day 2
Around noon arrival in Banda. Our first stop in the Banda group will be Ai Island, one of the locations popular with the early colonialists for growing spices, notably nutmeg. Behind the local village we may find Fort Revenge, a name testifying of the wars waged between colonial powers in the 17th century. Subsequently we will wash away our transpiration over one of the most gorgeous coral reefs of Eastern Indonesia off the coastline of Ai. Midday sail to Bandanaira, the capital of Banda, passing the towering volcano of Gunung Api. With the Katharina tied up to a local palm tree in front of a hacienda style hotel, we may stroll around the small colonial town with its restored planter’s mansions, forts (Fort Belgica!) and churches. The population is an interesting mix of Malay, Arab, Dutch and Melanesian.

Day 3
The fit and ambitious may undertake an early (4.30 am!) hike of the Gunung Api. The vista of the 9 Banda islands strewn over the azure seas, lit by the rose-fingered dawn will be the indescribable reward! After our breakfast we will pay a visit to the last nutmeg plantation still in operation. Here we will happily be guided around and be told how nutmegs and mace grow and are being processed according time honoured techniques.

Day 4
Spare day. We may spend this day to extend our stay in Banda - for attending a ceremony if this would occur or for visiting Hatta or Run Island. The latter was swapped by the Dutch in 1667 with the English for Manhattan. On our way out the ‘Sonnegat” (sun’s gap) between Bandanaira and Gunung Api we hope to be escorted by one or two so-called ‘Kora-Kora’, long sea canoes rowed by over a dozen muscled men and uses in ancient times to attack the invading colonists. Night sail headed southeast.over the Banda Sea.

Day 5
After a short early morning stop at Manuk Island, a rock in the middle of the Banda Sea populated by thousands of frigatebirds, sterns and gannets (if tides and local surf allow we briefly will set foot ashore, exposed to feigned attacks by the birds), we sail onward to the tiny islands of Serua and Nila.

Day 6
Today and tomorrow we will make stops at Serua and Nila, two of the three so-called TNS islands, southeast Moluccan islands where populations are closely related and local economies (sweet potato, sago palm, fish) very much look like each other . When we land, we will be ecstatically greeted by the people and finding ourselves to be the major tourist attraction of the year!

Day 7
Night sailing to the west coast Yamdena, Tanimbar.

Day 8
Sailing the islands along the west coast of Yamdena, the main island of the Tanimbar Archipelago. We will disembark on islands of quiet beauty with untouched forest teeming with birds, wild orchids and cuscus. This will be another day of nature exploration, coastal raids with our zodiac, and some relaxing time on remote beaches. Turning east along the north coast of the island we will proceed our journey headed for the north end of the Tanimbars.

Day 9
Going shore at one or two of the islands of Fordate, Larat or Asat. Village and nature exploration and snorkelling will be the substance of the day. With the assistance of local teachers we will try to attend to a performance of local music and dance. Late afternoon onward sailing to the Kei Archipelago.

Day 10
Early morning arrival at Kei-Tanimbar, the southernmost island of the Kei archipelago and allegedly the cradle of the regional culture. Here we will explore coastal villages, search for cultural artefacts such as weaving and pottery or make a trekking into the local forest. In the evening onward sailing to Tual, the capital of the Kei Archipelago.

Day 11
After our early breakfast we say farewell to the crew and the Katharina and will embark a coach for our transfer to the airport of Tual, the capital of the Kei archipelago From Tual we will fly via Ambon and Makassar back to Bali.

NOTICE
Participants are informed that itinerary and program of our sea voyages occasionally may be modified due to factors beyond our control: unfavorable weather conditions, delay in processing harbor clearances, modified schedules of domestic flights. The cruise director and captain of the Katharina will adjust the program accordingly to the best interest of all. Please note that the domestic flights are not included. Our office would be happy to arrange them for you.

Timika~Sorong

Day 01
Early morning arrival at the airport of Timika Transfer to the harbour of Timika located at the mouth of the local river, embarkation on board Katharina. Departure direction Agats.

Day 02
Arrival in front of Agats, the capital of the Asmat region Our two days into the Asmat heartland, located in the huge expense of swamps and mangrove along the southern coast of Papua (Irian Jaya), will allow us to visit various villages moving about on local longboats, as all Asmat villages are located on river banks. Not more than 50 years ago this land was yet completely unexplored and home to fierce warriors. See the traditional longhouses called “jeu”, the exquisite woodcarving that has made the Asmat people world famous and the way they tap the wild sago to satifsy their daily needs. We’ll experience ritual welcome ceremonies and and other traditional rituals pertinent to the Asmat tribe. At one stage the Katharina will be surrounded by dozens of war-canoes and the air will be filled with shrieks and shouts expressing a heartfelt welcome to the honoured guests coming from overseas.

Day 03
In the evening of our second day in the Asmat region we lift our anchor and set sail headed for the Triton bay located 200 odd nautical miles to the west.

Day 04
This entire day we will sail along the swampy coast of Irian Jaya. When winds are favourable, we will hoist the sails and share the experience of Sir Alfred Wallace who described Phinisi vessels as “more comfortable than the modern day steamers” during his Odysseys through the “Malay Archipelago” (1854-1862). When conditions allow one or more swim stops will be made.

Day 05
Arrival in Triton bay, certainly one of the most beautiful and undisturbed places of Asia. The scenery is just magnificent: tall cliffs, limestone outcrops separated by narrow channels, secluded beaches, turquoise waters…..the perfect pirate den. We’ll use the tenders to explore the area. If time permits, we can also visit the village of Lobo at the foot of a 3000 feet cliff. Quiet evening in a protected cove and BBQ on the beach.

Day 06
On our way to the small own of Kaimana we may make a stop at Namatote village to see some cliff paitings – glyphs and pictorial signs rather – left by ancient inhabitants high on the cliff galleries. In Kaimana we will spend a few hours in the centre of town to get the feel of ‘urban’ Papua. West of Kaimana we sail miles after miles along a coastline of uninhabited, towering mountains covered with thick jungle. Here, in complete wilderness, a roaring river cascades down the jungle-clad mountins and crashes right on the white-sand bach. Plenty of lobsters inhabit the rocky waters around Kiti Kiti.

Day 07
Today we arrive at Karas island in the bay of Sebakor. We visit local villages or laze around on the secluded beaches we may find here. Onward sailing to the district centre of Fakfak where we disembark for replenishing stock on board and exploring the city.

Day 08
Spare day. As our journey will lead us to virtually unchartered areas and we will enjoy little support of infrastructure in terms of supplies, bunkering and other facilities, we need to be open to the unexpected. This is why delays of various sorts may occur and we rather keep our time schedule a bit flexible to absorb any such ill fortunes.

Day 09
On the way from Fakfak to the island of Misool, we make a stop at one or two of the so-called Valsche Pisang islands, and definitely should not skip the desert island of Daram where pristine white beaches populated by myriads of hermit crabs present the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable BBQ. Great snorkeling!

Day 10
The north coast of Misool island is dotted with numerous uninhabited islands fringed by white-sand beaches and coral reefs; spend the morning, snorkeling or exploring the islands. After one or two stops we sail onward to the east-coast of Misool Island. Few areas in Indonesia can lay claim to such unsurpassed natural beauty as the eastern end of the Misool archipelago; the karst formation have cut the chain of islands into hundreds of coves and lagoons, high cliffs and limestone overhangs, narrow channels and inlets, caves and jagged rocks as well as countless shaded beaches….another perfect pirate’s den. The reefs are mostly untouched with many underwater caves waiting to be explored. If you feel like doing some rock – climbing, you will enjoy incredible scenery and a fair chance of spotting exotic birds, including large hornbills.

Day 11 & 12
We will explore today and tomorrow more of the so-called and worldfamous ‘Raja Empat’ (four kings) islands, located west and north of Bird’s Head the western tip of the vast island of New Guinea, the second largest in the world. We will look for the elusive Wilson’s Bird of paradise, take a bath in waterfalls and follow tracks into the jungle. The last night we will spend at anchor off the island of Mansuar, close to the mainland. Here we will enjoy our last experience of surroundings of white-sand beaches, clear waters, irridescent reefs with the backdrop of thick forests.

Day 13
After breakfast we say farewell to the crew of the Katharina and disembark on Jeffman Island in front of Sorong, where the airport of the city is located Return flight to Bali.

NOTICE
As this is a real discovery trip, leading to places where the Western civilization is way beyond the horizon, adequate supplies of food and in particular water are not easily obtained, reason why the particpants should be prepared for economical consumption of fresh water. Participants are informed that itinerary and program of our sea voyages occasionally may be modified due to factors beyond our control: unfavorable weather conditions, delay in processing harbor clearances, modified schedules of domestic flights. The cruise director and captain of the Katharina will adjust the program accordingly to the best interest of all.

Please note that the domestic flights are not included. Symbiosis will be happy to arrange them for you.

Sorong~Sorong

SORONG – SORONG 8 Days/7 Nights

Day 1
Upon arrival at Sorong airport located at Yefman island we purchaze our ‘conservation’ tag for entering the Raja Ampat National Park. After settling in on board Katharina we set sail to Wai, only hours from the mainland. In Wai we will enjoy our first environment of white-sand beaches, clear waters, irridescent reefs with the backdrop of thick forests. Night at anchor in the lagoon of Wai.

Day 2
Today before noon we will reach the island of Kri or Mansuar. Here we will meet the staff and management of two out of only three (eco) lodges to be found in the Raja Ampat archipelago encompassing over 600 islands. We may choose joining a birding tour, go for a dive (optional), snorkel or get on board of the locally owned seaplane for a spectacular inspection of the surrounding reefs (optional, 30 min.). Late afternoon sailing to Waigeo where we will spend the night at anchor in sheltered bay.

Day 3
Coming on deck this morning we feel surrounded by an armada of flying saucers, in reality a great number of tiny islets over time eroded by the incoming tide. This full day we will spend exploring the bay and all its treasures, monitor lizards, hermit crabs, eclectic parrots, birds of paradise, the crew will hunt fish with selfmade harpoons and prepare for us the perfect seafood beach barbecue. Robinson Crusoe grinds his teeth with envy ! Night at anchor; before dawn onward to the adjacent island of Gam

Day 4
Before day break we commence an one hour walk to the location where we hope to witness at dawn the dispaly dance of the red bird of paradise. Weather may be the obstacle though as rain seems to negatively affect the bird’s lust. We will spend time today to meet people of the local villages and listen to their stories. We hope to hear of their adventures in nature and of their secrets of life and death.Late afternoon departure to the Misool archipelago.

Day 5
The north coast of Misool island is dotted with numerous uninhabited islands fringed by white-sand beaches and coral reefs; spend the morning , snorkeling or exploring the islands. After one or two stops we sail onward to the east-coast of Misool Island. Few areas in Indonesia can lay claim to such unsurpassed natural beauty as the eastern end of the Misool archipelago; the karst formation have cut the chain of islands into hundreds of coves and lagoons, high cliffs and limestone overhangs, narrow channels and inlets, caves and jagged rocks as well as countless shaded beaches….the perfect pirate’s den. .If you feel like doing some rock – climbing, you will enjoy incredible scenery and a fair chance of spotting exotic birds, including large hornbills. To the east we may make a stop at the unihabited Pisang islands fringed by beaches of the purest white sand; swimming / snorkelling. BBQ at one of the beaches

Day 6
Today we will continue our exploration of the Misool area. If conditions are right, we will visit the local (Misool) ecolodge and hope to combine snorkeling with (optional) diving guided by a local divemaster Many of the local reefs are hardly touched and underwater caves are waiting to be explored. Or we go inland spotting the local bird species ike kasuari and indigenous monkeys, cuscus or indigenous marsupials.

Day 7
Spare day. As our journey will lead us to virtually uncharted areas and we will enjoy little support of infrastructure, we need to be open to the unexpected. Thsi day we may use for stops at the islands of Walib and Wagmab - at the time of drafting this program not yet known to the author but undoubtedly worth an attempt to reveal their secrets. In the afternoon we set sail for our return journey to Sorong. Full night sailing.

Day 8
If time allows we make a final stop at the island of Batanta where we may enjoy our last swim and say farewell to the indigenous people. After breakfast disembarkation from the Katharina and transfer to the airport for our return flight to Bali or to any other destination

NOTICE
Participants are informed that itinerary and program of our sea voyages occasionally may be modified due to factors beyond our control: unfavourable weather conditions, delay in processing harbor clearances, modified schedules of domestic flights.

The cruise director and captain of the Katharina will adjust the program accordingly to the best interest of all.

Please note that the domestic flights are not included. Symbiosis would be happy to arrange them for you.

Sorong~Ambon

SORONG - AMBON
12 Days/11 Nights

Day 1
Upon embarkation aboard the Katharina we set sail to the island of Mansuar, close to the mainland. Here we will enjoy our first experience of surroundings of white-sand beaches, clear waters, iridescent reefs with the backdrop of thick forests. Night at anchor before a short navigation at dawn toward Batanta.

Day 2
We’ll reach Batanta early morning. The day will start with a trek from a lovely an exquisite waterfall through thick rainforest with the chance of spotting the elusive Wilson’s bird of paradise.

Day 3
We sail on to the Boo islands. Tiny islands with rich vegetation, a birder's paradise. We drop anchor in a lovely horseshoe bay on Boo Kecil. Snorkelling around the bay of Boo Kecil. Apart from parrots many seabirds fly past. Night sailing from Boo to the Misool archipelago.

Day 4
The north coast of Misool island is dotted with numerous uninhabited islands fringed by white-sand beaches and coral reefs; spend the morning snorkelling or exploring the islands. After one or two stops we sail onward to the east-coast of Misool Island. Few areas in Indonesia can lay claim to such unsurpassed natural beauty as the eastern end of the Misool archipelago; the karst formation have cut the chain of islands into hundreds of coves and lagoons, high cliffs and limestone overhangs, narrow channels and inlets, caves and jagged rocks as well as countless shaded beaches… the perfect pirate’s den. The reefs are mostly untouched with many underwater caves waiting to be explored. If you feel like doing some rock – climbing, you will enjoy incredible scenery and a fair chance of spotting exotic birds, including large hornbills. Evening departure. Heading southeast direction Fakfak.

Day 5
On the way to Fakfak we make stop at the uninhabited Pisang islands fringed by beaches of the purest white sand; swimming / snorkelling. BBQ at one of the beaches.

Day 6
Early morning stop in Was island at the foot of the FakFak mountains. Meet the few families living on the island; we’ll also do some coastal exploration with the tenders. Onward to the district centre of Fakfak for bundering. Midday sail to Karas island in the Sebakor bay. Visit of coastal villages or laze around on the secluded beaches. From Karas we sail westward to the Gorong archipelago, stretching out into the Banda Sea from the easternmost point of Ceram.

Day 7
Arrival at Manawoka, one of the Gorong islands. After a walk through an old nutmeg grove and a visit to the Raja of Manawoka we move to the eastern tip of the island. There we find two lakes with a small tunnel connected with the sea. It's a special experience to swim and snorkel in these lakes. From Manawoka we sail in the evening southward to the Wabula archipelago.

Day 8
Kurkap, in the Watubela group of islands, is everyone’s vision of paradise island: ten acres of coconut trees surrounded by pure white sand, and fringed by coral reefs dropping to abyssal depth…that will be the decor for the day.

Day 9
Spare day. As our journey will lead us to virtually unchartered areas and we will enjoy little support of infrastructure in terms of supplies, bunkering and other facilities, we need to be open to the unexpected. This is why delays of any sort may occur and our time schedule has to be flexible to absorb any such ill fortunes.

Day 10
Arrival at the Banda Islands. In the morning arrival in the Banda archipelago, still famous for its natural beauty. The first island we visit will be Ai. A walk on the island where we will find the remains of Fort Revenge. A first glimpse of the famous Banda reefs. After lunch we sail through the enchanting 'Sonnegat' and moor in Bandaneira. It is the main town and island of the Bandas. Once the headquarters of the Dutch VOC, now a nice sleepy town under the smoke of the active volcano Gunung Api. On a stroll through town you will see the old forts and planter's houses, partially restored. ‘The original population fled these islands in the 17th century, as you can learn in the 'rumah budaya' (museum). The Dutch had to bring in slaves from other islands to work on the plantations. Now the population is an interesting racial mixture. The shops sell kenari nut cookies and nutmeg jam.

Day 11
Today we pay a visit to the last nutmeg plantation still in operation, run by Mr. Van den Roeke, a descendant of a Dutch colonist who settled here in the 17th century ! We will be guided around the premises and will experience how the nutmeg and lace is grown, harvested and processed very much the same way as in the old days The high rising kenari trees with its umbrella shaped foliage still provide shade for the nutmeg tree. Evening and night sailing to Ambon.

Day 12
Arrival in Ambon. After breakfast we say farewell to the crew and the Katharina and have our transfer to the airport for your return flight to Bali.

NOTICE
Participants are informed that itinerary and program of our sea voyages occasionally may be modified due to factors beyond our control: unfavourable weather conditions, delay in processing harbour clearances, modified schedules of domestic flights. The cruise director and captain of the Katharina will adjust the program accordingly to the best interest of all.

Please note that the domestic flights are not included. Symbiosis would be happy to arrange these for you.

Bali~Lombok~Bali Weekend

Bali-Lombok-Bali Weekend Cruise

An escape from the hectic pace and traffic jams of Bali. Board the Katharina on Saturday morning in Serangan, just south of Sanur, for a weekend cruise to Lombok and the picture perfect islets off its West coast. While you go back in time a few centuries - to the days Indonesia was only accessible by sea - and while lazing on the deck of a traditional sailing ship, you will be treated to three days of great food and some superb cocktails. We will take you ashore on our private beach for a romantic Barbecue under the stars with the ship’s orchestra playing nostalgic tunes and the Southern Cross pointing down over the bonfire. It will be a weekend of sun and sea, swimming and snorkelling - and if you feel like it, some singing and dancing as well- an unfailing booster charge to refuel your batteries for a long time to come.

Saturday
0830am. Meeting at Café Batujimbar, Sanur, (south Bali). From here, transferred by minibus or coach to Amed, (north-east Bali), passing beautiful rice terraces and steep valleys rarely frequented on regular Bali tours. After boarding Katharina and settling in, the Katharina will set sail for Gili Trawangan, northwest Lombok. Arriving at approx. 0230pm. Enjoy a swim and snorkel, or take a ride with a local horse cart, sensing the unique atmosphere of this famous traveler’s paradise. Late afternoon, sail to Nara Bay at mainland Lombok and enjoy dinner under the stars, spending a quiet night at anchor.

Sunday
While you are enjoying an abundant breakfast prepared by Katharina’s Chef, the vessel will make the short trip to the harbour of Lembar, where you will make a full day tour over Lombok. Today’s program will comprise tropical rainforest, attending production of palm sugar, visiting a local pasar and two original Sasak villages where you will be welcomed by the local ‘brass band’ and admire the local arts of hand weaving and pottery. Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant.
Around 0330pm, return onboard the Katharina to continue the sail to the islet of Gili Tangkong, 45 min. off the coast. In this private paradise, you will be spending the rest of the afternoon and evening, exploring the beaches, drinking fresh coconut milk and enjoying in splendid isolation a seafood barbecue, light-years away from the Bali crowds. The night will be spent at anchor.

MondayEarly birds may enjoy the sun rising over hazy mountains surrounding the Katharina. When skies are clear, a view of both the Agung volcano on Bali and the Rinjani volcano on Lombok will present itself. Some on board will be awakened by the smell of freshly baked croissants, take a quick breakfast and go out for snorkeling off the beach of Gili Nanggu, the adjacent island. Here local fish beg for the leftovers of our gorgeous breakfast. After, set sail headed for the island of Nusa Lembongan, off east Bali. Arrive at approx. 0230pm., when the island is just about to be deserted by the daily visitors from Bali. The vessel will make a stop at the north tip of the island to where you can explore the local mangrove forests and admire how sea weed is being processed for export. On your way back to the boat, you may visit a cave where people used to live until late last century. After a last swim to wash away the dust, Katharina will set sail onward to the harbour of Benoa, southeast Bali, where you will say farewell to the crew and have your individual transfer back to hotel or airport

From USD 925/per person/sharing or USD 1,305 per cabin in single occupancy. For July/August USD $970/per person/sharing.

*Children between 2 and 12 benefit from a 25% discount. A high season surcharge applies in July and August.

Notes

Itinerary and program occasionally may have to be modified, due to factors beyond our control: unfavorable weather conditions, delay in processing harbour clearances, modified schedules of domestic flights. The cruise director and captain of the Katharina will adjust the program accordingly in the best interest of all. Please note that the domestic flights are not included.

Ambon-Ternate

Moluccan Spice Discovery 1: Ambon-Ternate

The Moluccas or the Spice Islands have been a magic destination for over ten centuries. The first seafarers to explore the region, as early as the 8th century, were Chinese, later followed by the Arabs in the 1200s. In fact, the name Maluku is thought to have been derived from the Arab trader's term for the region, Jazirat al-Muluk ‘'the island of the kings”.

What the Arab traders brought back to their home ports, were exotic spices: cloves, mace and nutmeg. These were sold to Venetian merchants and became known in Europe as “the nuts from Muscat”. Because of the high value of these spices in Europe and the large profits they generated, many adventurers followed in the wake of the Chinese and the Arabs… first Portuguese and later Dutch and British. On this thirteen day voyage from Ambon to Ternate Seatrek retraces ‘the marine silk route’ to the fabled sultanate of Ternate.

Day 1: when you arrive at the Ambon airport cars will be waiting to take you to the Katharina at her mooring in the harbour. After you have settled in on the vessel and freshened up, spend the rest of the day exploring this bustling capital city of the Moluccas. Ambon was built on a hillside overlooking the bay and there are many interesting sites of historical and cultural interest. Among them are the remnants of several old forts built by the Dutch East Indies Company during the heydays of the spice trade. To get a good feel of the local atmosphere, we will tour the downtown area by foot or choose one of the numerous becaks (pedicabs). There are also great traditional markets as well as a Matahari “shopping center” from which to buy local crafts and produce.

Day 2: morning, pay a visit to the Siwa Lima Museum in the hills outside Ambon. The museum displays Maluku's foremost collection of regional and colonial artifacts. After lunch, continue a little further out of town to visit Fortress Amsterdam, a typical sample of a fortified trade post built by the VOC-Dutch East Indies Company in the 17th century. In the village of Kaitetu nearby, visit the oldest mosque in Ambon that was built in the year 1414. On the way back, there will be a stop for an inspection of a clove-plantation. Until the nineteenth century Ambon used to be the world center of clove production and we will see that cloves are in fact the dried flower buds of a tropical evergreen tree. In the course of the evening, the caption will raise the anchor to depart from Ambon Bay. After round the southern Cape of Ambon Island, sail on a Northerly course towards the island of Manipa.

Day 3: the ship will first drop anchor off the small village of Tumalehu on the east coast of Manipa. Here, you will get to visit Benteng Wantrouw (Fort ‘Distrust’), a 17th century Dutch fortress that used to be the headquarters a Dutch garrison established to control the local production of clove trees. Afterwards, you may make a few more stops at some fishing villages along the same coast.

Day 4: is dedicated to the visit of Buru. Heavily wooded and mountainous, it is the third largest island in the Moluccas. Because of its remoteness it served as the notorious island of internal exile during the Indonesian president Suharto era. Thousands of political prisoners were imprisoned here including Indonesia’s most famous author, Pramudya Ananta Tur. You will land in the capital Namlea and endeavor to explore the interior of the island using whatever local transport is available. Buru is known for the production of kayu putih oil. You will see how the leaves from the kayu putih trees are being cooked in huge jars and in all likelihood we will buy a few bottles ourselves. Kayu Putih oil serves as a mosquito-repellant; it is used to cure skin diseases and has many other purposes. There will be a short river cruise into the jungle in an effort to spot endemic birds, such as pittas, sunbirds and kingfishers. In addition Buru is home to the peculiar Babirusa, an animal that partly resembles a pig, and partly a deer and is found only in Sulawesi and Buru. Its ancestry is lost in the mists of time. In the late afternoon we depart from Namlea for an overnight passage of about a hundred miles across the Ceram Sea towards the Sula Islands.

Day 5: reach the Island of Sulabesi and visit its principal town Sanana, where you find an ancient Portuguese fortress, with its characteristic pinnacles at the four corners of the walls still reasonably intact. Outside the main town, you can visit a Bajao village where you can wander through a maze of wooden foot-bridges that connect the houses, all built on stilts over the sea. In the afternoon, depart on an easterly course towards the Obi islands.

Day 6: your first destination is Obilatu Island. Here, you will visit some small settlements on the north coast or relax in one of the bays. Afterwards continue exploring the area between Obilati and the main island of Obi Mayor and make random stops in the bays and on the islets that you pass in order to see what adventures may await you ashore. During the night, the ship goes on a Northerly course, slowly making our way towards Bacan Island.

Day 7: the sun rises as you reach Bacan, a mountainous and forested island west of Halmahera's southernmost arm. The captain will drop anchor in front of the small town of Labuha, capital of the district. You could visit the early morning market, a colorful scene of vegetables, fruits and spices and a delight to the photographers. The history of the island is as colorful as the market. Bacan used to be a powerful sultanate dating way back into the 14th century. It was an important producer of clove and frequented by Arab and Persian traders long before the western powers entered stage. Half an hour from Labua Harbor we will find Fort Barneveld, a stronghold constructed by the Dutch in 1615 to help protect the clove monopoly. After your visit of Labua the vessel will continue following the coast northward and carefully navigate its way between the adjacent islands toward the North coast of Bacan. There are many coral reefs in the area and during the day there will be several opportunities to go snorkeling. Spend the night at anchor in one of the Northern bays.

Day 8: this morning, go ashore for an early morning trek from the village of Geti where you enter the rain-forest to try and spot some of the endemic species of parrots, cockatoos, lorikeets and perhaps even the elusive cuscus or a rare black macaque.

Day 9: in the course of the morning, you will cross the equator and enter the northern hemisphere. You'll find ourselves off the island of Kayoa and the captain will look for a good anchorage nearby to celebrate the event.

Day 10: reach Tidore, seat of Ternate’s arch-rival since time immemorial, the Sultan of Tidore. We will have a guided tour around the island. We visit the ruins of Portuguese fortresses and stop at clove and coconut plantations. We also visit the local museum in Soa Siu displaying the Sultan’s crown and other royal paraphernalia.

Day 11: go ashore for a first reconnaissance of Ternate City. We meet the mixed races of the island: Malay, Chinese, Mediterranean, Melanesian, Arab, Indian, settled down one by one since the beginning of the last millennium. See the colonial warehouses at the harbour-site. Before lunch we start an extensive guided tour around Ternate, including visits of Portuguese and Dutch fortresses (Kayu Merah, Oranye, Toloko, Kastela). We see the giant oldest clove-tree in the world (400 years old) in the shadow of its protective Kenari trees. We visit the beautiful Laguna Lotus pond supposedly inhabited by a royal crocodile, venerated by the local people. We have a picnic in the foothills of the awesome Gamalama volcano. Late afternoon we return to the Katharina to freshen up and get ready for a well-deserved dinner.

Day 12: visit the ‘Kedaton’, the palace of the Sultan of Ternate. There might be an opportunity to attend court-dances in the ‘pendopo’ (covered atrium). If you are lucky, you may enjoy the presence of the Sultan and his family. Enjoy some teas and listen to a short introduction of the dances and the history of Ternate. After that, visit the museum that is attached to the palace and displays numerous gifts from other royal families, ancient holy krisses and the world-famous ‘Mahkota’, the crown with hair of the first Sultan of Ternate that allegedly still is growing. (Following a special request prior to the visit, obligatory ceremonies have been observed). In the evening we have a farewell dinner on board of the sturdy ship that took us across the equator.

Day 13: say goodbye to the captain and crew, cars will be waiting to take you to the airport for the flight back to Makassar and your onward connecting flight to Denpasar or Jakarta.

The Katharina

The Katharina is a traditional style Pinisi schooner, completely refurbished to a high standard of comfort in 2006.

The Bugis people of south Sulawesi, once feared as pirates, have always been the most skilful ship builders and sailors of Indonesia. Their vessels, the pinisi, were and still are hand-crafted entirely from timber, and have been used for centuries as cargo-carriers, plying the ancient trade routes between the islands of the Malay Archipelago, carrying anything from lumber to coca-cola crates.

Pinisi are elegant two-masted schooners with mainsails, top-sails and three jibs. Today, while still hand-built by native craftsmen and fully laid out in tropical hardwood with traditional rigging, they usually include an engine in addition to the sails.

The Katharina was conceived and equipped to accommodate small groups of passengers for cruising though the Indonesian archipelago, offering an excellent standard of reliability, safety and comfort.

Reliability

Although Bugis people are famous for the skill in building vessels without the need of any paper or calculations, relying only on their ancestral knowledge, THe Katharina is a product of a joint effort between western naval architects and traditional Bugis skills. Much attention is given to the vessel's maintenance, heeding to an annual docking period and periodical checks to the all major technical installations on board.

Comfort

The spacious air-conditioned, en-suite cabins, the dining/ recreational area and the large deck-space with comfortable deck chairs and sun benches make the Katharina perfectly suitable for extended exploratory or leisure cruises.

On board there are games, sea kayaks, body boards, deck-mattresses, snorkeling equipment, fishing gear and two tenders with outboard motors to make excursions to the islands.

Safety

The Katharina is fully equipped with the latest in navigational equipment: radar, depth sounder, GPS, VHS, all band radios and satellite telephones. For personal safety, she also carries life-jackets, inflatable life-rafts, buoys and for the communication of emergency conditions beacons, flares and IPIRB.

The Cabins

The Katharina boasts 7 cabins:

Lower deck: 2 twin cabins with one upper & one lower single bed and 4 double cabins with one double lower and one upper single bed.

All private bathrooms are laid out in marble, granite and mosaic, while the cabins have newly installed amenities such as a private safety box, a pair of binoculars, intercom for room service and soft lighting.

Upper deck: 1 large (family) cabin with a king size (lower) bed, a single (upper) bed and a children’s bedstead/bench (daytime). Space allows for an extra bed if desired. This cabin is aimed to provide a more spacious cabin for a group of friends, families or honeymooners.

* NOTE. Prices indicated on this website are shown as a guideline only and may be subject to currency fluctuations, banking fees and other changes outside our control. Pricing information is available in other currencies.